Satsangs

Satsang is a compound Sanskrit word that means “keeping the company of the Self.” The Self, Awareness, is the true nature of everyone and one keeps company with it by continually meditating on it in many ways. One of the most effective methods involves discussing non-dual teachings with someone who has realized his or her identity as the Self, to get clarity with reference to Self inquiry. The satsangs posted here are the questions of many people around the world who are interested in enlightenment and find that Vedanta is their preferred means of Self knowledge. Since I am a teacher of Vedanta, a time tested means of self inquiry, I am qualified to reply to these questions.~James Swartz

ShiningWorld Reader

Ted: Dear James, oh, another question about scripture. Would you say that there is some knowledge I haven’t heard now or is there still something left?

James: Is there another “you” to have knowledge about? If there is, then there is another knowledge.

Ted: What I want to say is Vedanta was something I immediately understood and liked, and I think it is not so much about ancient texts and teachings of countless different gurus but to apply the knowledge and live it. Am I right?

James: Yes, it is not ancient knowledge. No, you are not right. It is self-knowledge. It is the knowledge that reveals who you are. But it is not theory and practice either. It is just pure knowledge, like “this is a computer.” There is nothing you need to do about it. You just know what it is. This knowledge is saying quite the opposite. It is not telling you to do anything once you understand it. It is saying that once you understand it, you do not have to do anything. If you feel that you have to practice it, then you have not understood what kind of knowledge it is.

If you feel you have to practice it, it means that you take yourself to be imperfect in some way. But this knowledge says that you are perfect right now. You can act, but there is nothing to practice. You do not practice being Ted. You are Ted.

~ Love, James

Contacting Shining World

For years I have happily and diligently responded to communications on the topic of Self realization. Since the publication of my book, “How to Attain Enlightenment”— currently in its third printing —and the success of this website, the volume of emails has increased considerably. Unfortunately, owing to a busy schedule of teaching and writing, I am no longer able to answer all the emails I receive in a timely fashion. However, my wife, who is also a teacher, and several well-qualified teachers we have endorsed are available to answer emails on my behalf. I encourage you to send them your questions.
— James SwartzContact Us